1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2013 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Cherokee would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Impala (296 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 298 kg more than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Cherokee is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Jeep Cherokee. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Impala, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2013 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. 2013 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Cherokee has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Cherokee will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Cherokee | 2013 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Jeep | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cherokee | Impala |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2463 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 194 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1678 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1851 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2807 mm |
